Construction Safety: Know the Fatal Four
We know that accidents are caused by systemic failures. The next step is translating that knowledge into action by training your eyes to spot the most dangerous “holes” on a client’s jobsite. In construction safety, this means learning to identify both the obvious and hidden risks that can lead to serious incidents.
This week, let’s focus on the “Active Failures”—the visible, immediate hazards—by knowing what to look for, starting with construction’s “Fatal Four.” Mastering this step is essential for anyone committed to construction safety excellence.
The Fatal Four: Know the Greatest Risks
The majority of construction fatalities are caused by four specific types of incidents. When you’re on a site visit, or talking to a candidate, these are the risks you must prioritize to support stronger construction safety outcomes:
Falls
Falls are the most common killer in the industry. Look for missing guardrails, unprotected roof or floor edges, improperly used harnesses, or damaged scaffolding.
Question to Ask: “Where will our worker tie off at heights above six feet?”
These fall hazards are often easy to spot, but they remain a top focus in construction safety programs.
Struck-By Object
Struck-by incidents occur when workers are hit by falling tools, moving vehicles, or collapsing structures. Look for overhead work without “toe boards” or safety netting, and heavy equipment operating too close to pedestrians.
Question to Ask: “What is your spotter protocol for heavy equipment in congested areas?”
Identifying struck-by risks is a key part of proactive construction safety inspections.
Electrocutions
Electrocution hazards stem from contact with power lines or live circuits. Look for damaged or frayed electrical cords, improper grounding, or portable tools used near water.
Question to Ask: “Are all portable tools double-insulated or properly grounded with GFCI protection?”
Recognizing these threats early is critical to maintaining a high construction safety standard.
Caught-In/Between
Caught-in/between incidents involve workers being squeezed, crushed, or trapped by equipment or materials. This includes trench collapses or getting caught in unguarded machinery.
Question to Ask: “Is all trenching deeper than 5 feet shored, sloped, or otherwise protected?”
Being alert to these risks is another cornerstone of effective construction safety practices.
By focusing on the Fatal Four, you turn knowledge into action. Every site visit and candidate conversation becomes an opportunity to identify hazards before they become tragedies. When construction safety is treated as everyone’s responsibility, we create safer, more productive jobsites.